Elizabeth Pena, Famed Hispanic Actress, Dies at 55

Elizabeth Peña, the beloved hispanic actress known for early roles in films like 'La Bamba,' 'Down and Out in Beverly Hills,' and '*batteries not included,' has sadly passed away at the age of 55, according to her nephew. Peña had recently finished filming on the first season of the El Rey Network series 'Matador.'

The news first broke at Latino Review, who received word from Peña's nephew that the actress had passed away at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles last night. She was just 55 years old. Peña had recently completed filming on the first season of 'Matador' for the El Rey Network, in which she played Maritza, the mother of the titular character.

Peña's career began in 1979 with a role in 'El Super,' but she's best known for her parts in films like the Ritchie Valens biopic 'La Bamba,' the family film '*batteries not included,' and movies like 'Down and Out in Beverly Hills' and 'Jacob's Ladder.' In the early '90s, she had recurring roles on shows like 'L.A. Law' and 'Shannon's Deal,' and in the mid-'90s appeared in 'Lone Star' with Matthew McConaughey and 'Free Willy 2.' Later, she lent her voice to the Pixar film 'The Incredibles' as the character Mirage.

More recently, Peña had a recurring role on 'Modern Family,' and appeared in the films 'Plush' and 'Girl on the Edge.' The reason for her untimely passing is unknown, but the incredibly talented Peña has been so prolific throughout the years that her presence will be sorely missed. May she rest in peace.